When parents separate or divorce, questions about child support often follow. These matters can feel overwhelming and deeply personal, especially when money is tight and the future seems uncertain. Child support is meant to ensure children have the financial resources they need, but the process of determining, modifying, or enforcing payments can be complex.
At Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace, we help families throughout Pennsylvania understand their rights and responsibilities under child support laws. Our role is to guide you through the process and protect your interests while keeping your children’s well-being at the center.
Pennsylvania Child Support Basics
In Pennsylvania, both parents are legally required to support their children. Typically, child support continues until a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens later. Support may last longer if a child has a mental or physical disability.
The court determines support using the Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines, which consider:
- The income or earning capacity of both parents
- The number of children to be supported
- Additional expenses, such as health insurance, daycare, or uncovered medical costs
Income can include wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, rental income, retirement benefits, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and more. Courts may also assign an “earning capacity” if a parent is unemployed or underemployed but capable of working.
Who Pays Child Support?
In most cases, the parent who spends less time with the child (the non-custodial parent) pays child support to the parent who has primary physical custody. However, this becomes less straightforward when custody is shared equally.
Child Support When Custody Is 50/50
Many parents assume that if custody is split evenly, no child support is needed. That is not always the case in Pennsylvania. Even with equal parenting time, the court looks at the difference in each parent’s income.
For example:
- If both parents earn roughly the same amount, neither may owe support.
- If one parent earns significantly more, the higher-earning parent may still be required to pay support so the child’s standard of living is more balanced across both households.
Courts also factor in which parent pays for health insurance, daycare, or extracurricular costs. The goal is to make sure that children have consistent financial support no matter whose home they are in.
How Support Is Calculated in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Guidelines use a formula based on the combined monthly net income of both parents. Each parent’s share of support is proportionate to their percentage of the combined income. Additional expenses may be divided in the same way.
Some common costs that may be added to the support order include:
- Health insurance premiums for the child
- Unreimbursed medical expenses
- Childcare costs needed so a parent can work or attend school
Modifying a Child Support Order
Life changes, and so can child support. You may request a modification if you experience a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- Loss of a job or significant change in income
- Relocation of either parent
- A child’s changing needs, such as new medical or educational expenses
- A custody change that affects parenting time
Courts review modification petitions carefully, so it’s important to have legal guidance before filing.
If You’re Struggling to Pay Child Support
It is common for parents to feel overwhelmed by child support obligations, especially if they’ve had a job loss or unexpected expense. Ignoring payments can lead to serious consequences, including wage garnishment, license suspension, or even jail time. Instead, consider these steps:
- Request a modification: If your financial situation has changed, you can petition the court for a new order.
- Communicate with the other parent: While private agreements don’t replace a court order, keeping open communication may help reduce tension until a formal change can be made.
- Document your finances: Courts require proof of income, expenses, and employment efforts. Accurate records strengthen your case.
We can help you present your situation clearly and pursue a solution that reflects your current financial reality.
Enforcing Child Support Orders
If a parent fails to pay support, the court can enforce the order through several measures:
- Contempt proceedings
- Wage withholding
- Driver’s or professional license suspension
- Tax refund interception
- Liens on property or bank accounts
Enforcement is taken seriously, and the law provides multiple tools to make sure children receive the support they are entitled to.
Talk With a Pittsburgh Child Support Attorney
Child support can affect every part of your family’s future. Whether you are seeking a fair order, dealing with 50/50 custody, facing financial difficulties, or trying to enforce an existing order, the attorneys at Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace are here to help.
We will listen to your concerns, explain your options, and stand with you throughout the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and your children’s best interests.